New Zealand Cricket's latest innovation, a Shadow 11, will make its first appearance during the One Day International between New Zealand and Sri Lanka at Napier today.

The concept will be introduced when New Zealand runs onto the paddock to field.

Each member of the Shadow 11, dressed in their own team t-shirt, will accompany one member of the CLEAR Black Caps onto the part at the beginning of the side's fielding innnings.

The players will then sign a cricket mini-bat for the youngsters, who will then return to their free seats as the players take their positions.

NZC's marketing manager Peter Dwan said: "The Shadow 11 concept provides an unprecedented opportunity for young New Zealanders to get close to their cricketing heroes in a real match situation.

"A different Shadow 11 will be selected for each remaining One Day International of the summer which will give more than 100 supporters the opportunity to experience the sensation of running into an international cricket arena," he said.

The Shadow 11s are selected from the Fan Pack membership of the New Zealand Cricket Club - a new supporters club for cricket fans.

The Fan Pack, aimed at the younger market, provides members with a free CLEAR Black Caps poster, a club membership certificate signed by Stephen Fleming and a discount ticket offer, in addition to the opportunity for selection in the Shadow 11.

Another membership package, known as the Stadium Pack, offers a ticket discount package valued at $50, as well as a $20 communications credit from CLEAR.

Members in both categories have also gone into the draw to win one of 11 $500 savings accounts from the National Bank.

"Both the New Zealand Cricket Club and the Shadow 11 are aimed at involving more New Zealanders in the thrill of international cricket and at rewarding loyal fans," Dwan said.

The Shadow 11 for Napier tomorrow is: Chelsea Vercoe (Tamatea), Rian Meyer (Napier), Matthew Osterfield (Tamatea), Rebecca Bunce (Napier), Jamie Lay (Hastings), Rory O'Connor (Havelock North), Daniel Koenders (Taradale), Fraser Putt (Hastings), Jacob Chalmers (Ongaonga), Simon Russell (Havelock North), Aaron Doody (Waipawa).

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